"Wanting a nice house or car means I care more about stuff than people."
How it sounds in your head: Every time I look at a nicer house or think about upgrading my car, I feel guilty. Like wanting nice things means I'm shallow or don't care about what really matters. Shouldn't I be focused on souls, not square footage?
"Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy."
-- 1 Timothy 6:17Source: Religion created a false dichotomy between material blessings and spiritual depth, as if you can't love God and drive a nice truck.
Sermons emphasized 'storing treasure in heaven' while side-eyeing anyone with a new car in the parking lot. The message was clear: nice things equal wrong priorities.
Solomon exceeded all kings in riches and wisdom. God GAVE him both—the wealth wasn't a distraction from his purpose; it was part of God's blessing. His wealth funded the temple and demonstrated God's glory.
I REFUSE the lie that wanting nice things is shallow. IT IS WRITTEN in 1 Timothy 6:17 that God gives us RICHLY all things to ENJOY. I don't apologize for wanting a safe car for my family or a home with room to breathe. IT IS WRITTEN in Psalm 84:11 that no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. My Father delights in giving me good gifts. The BARAK over my life includes being blessed in the city and in the field, in everything I set my hand to. I can enjoy material blessings AND love people deeply—they're not enemies; they're both from a generous Father. I receive without guilt and give without lack.
Your Father isn't rolling His eyes at your Pinterest board or the truck you've been eyeing. He's the one who GAVE you the desire for beauty, comfort, and quality. He gives richly all things to ENJOY, not to feel bad about. Receive it, enjoy it, thank Him for it.